Page 36 - Phil Nov8th program digital book

Spotlight Guest Vocalist

Jacyn Tremblay

You said you used to be very shy and “hide and sing.”
How did you eventually find the confidence to share
your voice with others?
As I went through school and joined theater and
choir, I became more confident onstage and in public
performance. I’d say it was a mix of natural maturity
and experience that helped! The more I sang in front of
people, the easier it became. I still get nervous before a
big performance, but once I’m on stage and start singing,
I immediately feel better — it’s like releasing that energy out to the audience.
Was there a moment or person who helped you step into the spotlight for the
first time?
I’ll never forget my first music teacher, Mr. Stonkus. He was my elementary school
chorus teacher and really helped me find my true voice. He treated students like
young adults, not little kids, and taught us to respect our own voices and each
other’s. He instilled professionalism and a strong work ethic. I felt validated and
seen as a creative person — even in fourth grade. What an impact!
Looking back, do you still recognize that shy version of yourself, or has
performing completely transformed you?
That “shy” side is still in there. What helps me is stepping outside my own head
and remembering that my job is to connect with people and lift them up through
music. When you focus on your purpose and stay present for the audience, you’re
giving a gift. In those moments onstage, it’s not “me” and “them” — we’re in it
together. That’s when the magic happens.
You work with Music Drives Us, helping deliver instruments to schools and
nonprofits across New England. What’s the most rewarding part of that work?
The most rewarding part of my job with Music Drives
Us is being out in the community and seeing firsthand
what schools and nonprofits need. We make sure
they get the instruments and funding to keep their
programs alive. Our mission is simple: keep music in
schools, no matter what.

You seem to thrive on collaboration — what do you enjoy most about making
music with others?
I love combining my energy with other creative people. It’s kind of like baking —
when you bring the right ingredients together, the result is always unique. There’s
a piece of you in every creative work you release into the world. I feel so fortunate

34 ~ Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra